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The Oregon Modest Means Program serves as a crucial resource for individuals facing legal challenges but who find themselves in a financial gray area. Designed specifically for moderate-income residents, this program assists those who earn too much to qualify for traditional legal aid but still struggle with the costs associated with hiring a lawyer. The application form outlines the essential steps to access this program, emphasizing the importance of filling it out completely, including your signature and date. It’s important to note that only specific types of legal matters are covered, which include family law, criminal defense, landlord/tenant issues, and foreclosure cases. Applicants are required to provide information about their income and assets, as eligibility hinges on these factors, along with the nature and location of the legal issue at hand. After submission, the application is usually reviewed within one business day, followed by a potential referral to a participating lawyer who has agreed to charge reduced rates for their services. The costs, starting with a $35 initial consultation, vary depending on the applicant's financial situation. This program does not provide free services, but it aims to make legal help more accessible for those who need it. Understanding the guidelines and requirements of the application form is the first step toward obtaining the legal assistance you may need.
Oregon Modest Means Program Example
Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM
Oregon State Bar, Modest Means Program, PO Box 231935, Tigard, OR
Voice: (503)
PLEASE READ BEFORE COMPLETING APPLICATION:
Oregon lawyers created the Modest Means Program to help
Types of Matters: Modest Means lawyers only handle certain kinds of family law, crim- inal defense, landlord/tenant and foreclosure matters. If the specific area of law with which you need help is not listed on the application, then it is not part of the program.
To Apply: Before you can be referred to a Modest Means lawyer you must apply and be
Please do not forget to sign and date your application. Your application will not be processed if you do not fill out your application completely, or fail to sign or date it. Do not include any other documents with your application – any documents you send to us will not be returned. We process most applications within one (1) business day. If you provide an email address, please check your email account for your referral or for questions that we may have about your application.
Eligibility: Eligibility is based on the type and location of your legal matter, your in- come and assets, your location, and availability of participating lawyers in your area. It is important to understand there are a limited number of lawyers in the program, and there may not be a Modest Means lawyer in your county. We cannot guarantee that we will have a lawyer for you even if you
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Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM
Oregon State Bar, Modest Means Program, PO Box 231935, Tigard, OR
Voice: (503)
Qualification Process: You will be contacted by email or telephone after your application has been reviewed. If you
Initial Consultation: If you are referred to a Modest Means lawyer, you will need to call the lawyer to make an appointment for your initial
Hiring a Modest Means Program Lawyer: Whether or not you hire the lawyer to represent you after your initial consultation is a decision for both you and the lawyer to make. We cannot guarantee that a lawyer will agree to take your case. All Modest Means lawyers who participate are volunteers and have the right to choose whether or not they will accept your case.
Legal Fees & Costs: Lawyers who are willing to accept Modest Means clients have agreed to charge no more than $60, $80, or $100 per hour for any services they provide beyond the initial $35,
The Modest Means Program is not a legal aid program and it is not a pro bono (free) program. You must be able to pay $35 for an initial consultation, plus $60/80/100 per hour (as applicable) for any work done beyond the initial consultation. In order to be referred to a Modest Means Program lawyer, your application must demonstrate that you have the ability to pay these fees. If someone will be helping you pay for your legal fees and costs please explain that on your application. If you are unable to pay these fees and costs, you should contact the legal aid office in your county of resi- dence. The Oregon State Bar does not have a referral program for pro bono (free) lawyers.
Portland Metro Area: (503)
Elsewhere in Oregon: (800)
Fax: (503)
Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM (Page
Oregon State Bar, Modest Means Program, PO Box 231935, Tigard, OR
Voice: (503)
INSTRUCTIONS: Please print clearly or type. Please sign and date your application. Your application will not be processed if you do not fill out your application completely, or fail to sign or date it. Do not include any other documents with this application – any documents you send to us will not be returned. We process most applications within one (1) business day. If you provide an
OREGON STATE BAR MODEST MEANS PROGRAM, P.O. BOX 231935, TIGARD, OR
FAX: (503)
Please note: All information provided will be treated as confidential communications made for the purpose of facilitating the rendering of professional legal services to you. We will preserve the confidentiality of all such information unless otherwise required by law.
First Name |
Last Name |
Address |
|
City |
Zip Code |
Phone Number |
Family Law (No Appeals) |
Criminal Law (No Capital Charges or Appeals) |
Divorce/Separation |
Misdemeanor |
Custody/Parenting Time |
Lesser Felony |
Support/Modification |
Major Felony |
Juvenile/DHS/CSD/SCF issues |
DUII/DWS |
Paternity |
Parole/Probation |
Restraining Orders |
Expungement |
Process Questions |
|
Domestic Violence |
Real Property (No Appeals) |
Grandparent/3rd Party Rights |
Foreclosure |
Spousal Support |
|
Coaching (General) |
|
Document Review |
Mobile Home (Tenant) |
|
Mobile Home (Landlord) |
In which city/county do you need assistance? |
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When is your next court date (if applicable)? |
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What is the name of the opposing party? |
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Does the opposing party have an attorney? |
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If yes, what is the attorney’s name? |
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Are both parties in Oregon? |
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Have you already consulted with an attorney? |
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If yes, what is the attorney’s name? |
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Reason you are looking for another attorney: |
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|
Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM (Page |
First Name |
Last Name |
Phone Number |
A household consists of people with whom you share income and expenses, who live in your home at least 50% of the time.
How many people live in your household including you? |
_____Adults |
_____Children |
|
|
|
Marital Status: |
Unmarried or Widowed |
Married |
Separated |
Divorced |
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Do you and your spouse live in the same household? |
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Yes |
No |
N/A |
|
Do you rent or own the home in which you are living? |
|
Rent |
Own |
|
|
Do you own any land or a house, even if you do not live there? |
Yes |
No |
|
||
Make of each vehicle owned |
Year |
Model |
|
|
Value (est.) |
1.
2.
Gross Income (before taxes) |
|
(per month) |
Wages: |
$ |
|
Spousal Support: |
$ |
|
Child Support: |
$ |
|
Veteran's Benefit: |
$ |
|
Unemployment: |
$ |
|
SSI/SSD: |
$ |
|
TANF (not SNAP): |
$ |
|
Public Benefits, Aid, SNAP: |
$ |
|
Retirement/Investment Income: |
$ |
|
Other income (please specify): |
$ |
|
Total Gross Income: |
$ |
0 |
Special Expenses & Debts1 |
|
(Per Month) |
|
$ |
|
|
$ |
|
Liquid Assets |
|
|
Checking Account Balance |
$ |
|
Savings Account Balance |
$ |
|
Money Market/Other Account |
$ |
|
Total Liquid Assets: |
$ |
0 |
|
|
|
Amount in Retirement Plans (401k), |
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|
mutual funds, securities, bonds, etc.: |
$ |
|
Other |
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|
|
$ |
|
Total |
$ |
0 |
Partner/Family Members in Household : |
(Gross Income |
|
|
|
per month) |
Medical2(see explanation below): |
$ |
|
|
|
|
Child Care3(see explanation below): |
$ |
|
Name |
Relationship |
|
Transportation4(see explanation below): |
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
Spousal Support: |
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
Child Support: |
$ |
|
If not already listed above, what is your |
|
|
|
|
|
spouse's gross income per month? |
|
|
Total Special Expenses/Debts: |
$ |
0 |
(Please estimate, if separated.) |
$ |
|
1Ordinary expenses that most people have (such as rent, food, utilities) are considered in the basic income calculations and should not be listed here. Other personal and discretionary expenses such as car payments, car insurance, and credit card debts are not considered under our guidelines.
2“Medical” refers to medical expenses that are not covered by insurance. 3“Child Care” refers to costs incurred while a parent is at work.
4“Transportation” refers to basic transportation costs to get to and from work (bus tickets, gas).
Have you submitted an application before? |
Yes |
No If so, when? |
By signing below, I certify that all information provided is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I understand and agree that if I provide inaccurate, incomplete, misleading or false information on this application, or to any Modest Means Program attorney, I may be disqualified from participation in any and all Referral & Information Services programs, including the Modest Means Program.
Signature |
Date |
|
B E L O W I S F O R O F F I C E U S E O N L Y |
Eligible: |
Y |
N |
Tier: |
1 |
2 |
3 |
$ |
/hour Notes: |
(rev. 5/18 |
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Modest Means Program - PUBLIC APPLICATION FORM (Page |
First Name |
Last Name |
Phone Number |
Briefly describe the legal matter for which you are seeking assistance:
Form Characteristics
| Fact Name | Fact Description |
|---|---|
| Program Purpose | The Modest Means Program was created by Oregon lawyers to assist individuals with moderate incomes in finding affordable legal services. |
| Types of Legal Matters | This program specifically caters to certain family law cases, criminal defense, landlord/tenant disputes, and foreclosure issues. |
| Eligibility Requirements | Eligibility is determined based on your income, assets, the type of legal matter, and whether both parties reside in Oregon. |
| Application Process | To access the program, applicants must complete and submit a public application form, ensuring all required information is provided. |
| Initial Consultation Fee | Upon being referred to a Modest Means lawyer, the initial consultation fee is capped at $35 for a 30-minute session. |
| Legal Fees Structure | Post-consultation fees are reduced, with attorneys charging no more than $60, $80, or $100 per hour based on the client's financial situation. |
Guidelines on Utilizing Oregon Modest Means Program
After filling out the Oregon Modest Means Program application form, it will be sent for review. The program aims to connect individuals with reduced-cost legal assistance. Once the application is processed, you will receive a response via email or phone regarding the status of your referral.
- Download the application form from the Oregon State Bar website or request it by phone.
- Print the form clearly or type your information directly into the application.
- Fill in your first name, last name, address, city, zip code, phone number, and email address.
- Indicate the type of legal matter you need assistance with by checking the appropriate box.
- Specify the city or county where you require help, along with any upcoming court dates if applicable.
- Provide details about the opposing party and their attorney, if applicable.
- Declare the number of people in your household, including adults and children.
- State your marital status and whether you and your spouse live in the same household.
- Indicate whether you rent or own your home, and if you own additional property.
- List vehicles you own, including their make, year, model, and estimated value.
- Report your monthly gross income from various sources, totaling it at the end.
- Detail any special expenses or debts you have incurred each month.
- List your liquid assets, including checking, savings, and other accounts.
- Provide information on non-liquid assets, including retirement plans and other investments.
- Confirm if you have submitted an application before and when it was submitted.
- Sign and date the application, certifying that all provided information is true and complete.
- Do not include any additional documents with your application.
- Submit your completed application via fax, mail, or email to the appropriate addresses provided on the form.
What You Should Know About This Form
What is the Oregon Modest Means Program?
The Oregon Modest Means Program is designed to assist moderate-income individuals who require legal help but do not qualify for free legal aid services. It connects users with participating lawyers who agree to charge reduced rates for legal assistance. This program serves people whose income is too high for traditional legal aid but too low to afford standard legal fees.
What types of legal matters are covered?
Modest Means lawyers handle a limited selection of legal issues, including family law matters (such as divorce and custody), criminal defense (excluding capital charges), landlord/tenant disputes, and foreclosure issues. If your legal matter does not fit within these categories, unfortunately, it will not be eligible for assistance through this program.
How do I apply for the program?
To apply, you must complete the application form and submit it via fax, mail, or email (in PDF format) to the Modest Means Program. The application is available on the Oregon State Bar website or by contacting their office directly. Make sure to sign and date your application, as incomplete applications will not be processed. Do not attach additional documents, as they will not be returned.
What happens after I submit my application?
Once your application is received, it will be reviewed. If you pre-qualify, you will be contacted either via email or phone and provided with the name and contact information of a local Modest Means lawyer. This lawyer will then have access to your application and may reach out for further details to confirm your eligibility.
What are the fees associated with the program?
The initial consultation with a Modest Means lawyer costs no more than $35. For any services beyond this initial meeting, lawyers charge a reduced hourly rate — $60, $80, or $100, depending on your income and assets. A retainer will also be required, and additional court fees and costs may apply. It is important to understand that this program is not a pro bono service, so you must be able to pay these fees.
Can I choose to not hire the lawyer after the initial consultation?
Yes, the decision to hire the lawyer is up to you after your initial consultation. Even if you are referred to a Modest Means lawyer, there is no obligation to proceed with them. Each participating lawyer has the discretion to decide whether to take on your case regardless of the referral.
Are there any eligibility requirements?
Eligibility for the Modest Means Program depends on several factors, including the type of legal matter, your income and assets, where you reside, and the availability of participating lawyers in your area. Additionally, for the program to apply, all legal matters must be located in Oregon, and both parties involved in the matter must also be Oregon residents.
What should I do if I'm unable to afford the fees?
If you find that you cannot pay the legal fees associated with the Modest Means Program, you should contact your local legal aid office. The Oregon State Bar does not have a referral program for pro bono attorneys, so exploring other resources may be necessary to find the assistance you need.
Common mistakes
Completing the Oregon Modest Means Program application can offer valuable legal assistance. However, many individuals make mistakes that can hinder their access to this important resource. Awareness of common pitfalls can significantly enhance the application experience.
One frequent mistake is failing to provide complete information. The application requires specific details about your household, income, and legal issue. Omitting information can lead to delays or outright rejection of your application. Each section is designed to give a clear picture of your circumstances. When you leave out information, the reviewing body is left guessing, which could mean missing the chance for legal help.
Another error involves neglecting to sign and date the application. This step might seem minor, but it is crucial. Applications without signatures or dates are rendered invalid. So, before sending it off, double-check to ensure this important aspect is not overlooked. It could save you from unnecessary setbacks.
Many applicants also forget to check their email regularly after submission. The Oregon State Bar often communicates important updates, including referrals, via email. Failing to monitor your email could mean missing timely information about available lawyers or next steps in your application process. Set aside some routine time to check your accounts, especially if you specified an email when applying.
Additionally, a common pitfall involves misunderstanding eligibility requirements. The program caters to specific areas of law; if your case falls outside these areas, your application will be declined. It's essential to familiarize yourself with what constitutes acceptable legal matters before filling out the form. If your situation isn't covered, seeking alternatives early on can save you time and frustration.
Providing inaccurate income information can also lead to disqualification. The program's benefits hinge on an accurate assessment of your financial situation. Include all necessary incomes and do not underestimate or overestimate your assets or earnings. This level of honesty helps ensure you receive the appropriate level of assistance based on your actual financial situation.
Another misstep can occur with not explaining financial support: If someone else assists you with legal costs, it's important to clarify this on the application. The Modest Means Program aims to provide assistance only if you can demonstrate a need. Miscommunication or lack of detail around financial backing can affect your eligibility.
Some applicants might submit additional documents, thinking this will strengthen their applications. However, doing so is a mistake. The instructions explicitly state that no extra documents should be included with the application. Anything sent in will not be returned and could complicate the processing of your request.
Furthermore, confusion surrounding the difference between the Modest Means Program and legal aid can lead applicants astray. Remember, this program is not a free legal service. Being aware of the fee structure upfront, including the cost of the initial consultation and hourly rates thereafter, is critical for planning your legal journey.
Lastly, forgetting to highlight any previous applications submitted can be a stumbling block. If you have applied before, this history must be included to provide context. Omitting this detail could raise questions about your eligibility and lead to complications in your process.
In sum, filling out the Oregon Modest Means Program application requires attention to detail and adherence to guidelines. Being mindful of these common mistakes can help facilitate a smoother application process, paving the way for access to necessary legal support.
Documents used along the form
The Oregon Modest Means Program helps moderate-income individuals secure affordable legal assistance for specific legal matters. When applying for this program, several other forms and documents may be relevant for a more comprehensive understanding of your legal situation. Below is a list of common documents that can complement your application to the Oregon Modest Means Program.
- Income Verification Documents: These documents, such as pay stubs, bank statements, or tax returns, provide proof of your financial situation and are crucial for establishing eligibility.
- Asset Disclosure Form: An asset disclosure form outlines your non-liquid and liquid assets. This includes property ownership, vehicle value, and retirement accounts, which helps determine your financial capacity to pay for legal services.
- Supporting Affidavits: Written statements from third parties may help corroborate your circumstances. These affidavits can provide additional context regarding your financial situation or specific legal issues.
- Prior Legal Consultation Records: If you've consulted with any other attorneys previously, providing records or notes from those meetings may be beneficial. This helps the Modest Means lawyers understand your history and any previous attempts to resolve your legal matter.
- Court Documents: Any existing legal documents related to your case, such as court orders or previous filings, can be essential. These documents give the Modest Means lawyer a clear picture of your legal needs right from the start.
These additional forms and documents can significantly enhance the clarity and completeness of your application to the Modest Means Program. Ensuring that your application is well-supported can streamline the referral process and assist you in receiving the legal aid you need.
Similar forms
The Oregon Modest Means Program application form shares similarities with several other legal assistance documents. The following points outline these similarities:
- Legal Aid Application Form: Like the Modest Means Program, legal aid applications seek to evaluate an individual's eligibility for assistance based on income and asset thresholds. Both require detailed personal and financial information to assess whether the applicant can afford legal services.
- Pro Bono Legal Services Application: Pro bono applications, similar to the Modest Means Program, aim to connect individuals with reduced-cost or free legal assistance. Both documents require applicants to disclose their income levels and assets to determine eligibility for the provided services.
- Low-Income Housing Assistance Application: Applications for low-income housing support and the Modest Means Program both require comprehensive personal information, including income, household composition, and residing county. Their purpose is to identify individuals in need who may benefit from reduced costs.
- Public Defender Application: The application for public defenders and the Modest Means Program form handle cases involving financial limitations. Both forms collect information about the applicant's income, assets, and any relevant legal issues to establish the need for affordable legal representation.
- Financial Assistance Program Application: Applications to various financial assistance programs, much like the Modest Means form, require applicants to furnish detailed financial data, including income and expenses. This helps establish their financial need and aligns assistance options with applicants’ capabilities.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Oregon Modest Means Program form, keeping a few important guidelines in mind can make the process smoother. Here are five things you should and shouldn't do:
- Do read all instructions thoroughly before starting the application.
- Don't leave any sections blank; incomplete applications will not be processed.
- Do provide accurate information about your financial situation to demonstrate eligibility.
- Don't include any additional documents with your application; they will not be returned.
- Do check your email regularly for communication after submitting your application.
Misconceptions
- My income disqualifies me from the Modest Means Program. Many believe they earn too much, but the program specifically targets those who make too much for legal aid but cannot afford standard legal fees. It accommodates moderate-income individuals.
- I can submit any additional documentation with my application. This is a common misunderstanding. The program instructs applicants not to include any extra documents with the application. Any documents submitted will not be returned.
- The program provides pro bono legal services. This misconception arises often. While the Modest Means Program offers services at a reduced rate, it is not a pro bono initiative. Individuals must be able to pay the initial consultation fee and ongoing legal fees.
- Once I apply, I will definitely get a lawyer. Eligibility for a lawyer is not guaranteed, even after pre-qualification. The number of participating attorneys is limited, and there may not be available lawyers in your area.
- Every legal matter is covered under the Modest Means Program. The program only handles specific types of cases, such as family law and landlord/tenant disputes. If your legal issue is not listed on the application, it will not be covered.
- I won't have to pay anything for legal assistance. It's vital to understand that there are fees involved. Referral to a Modest Means lawyer comes with costs for consultation and ongoing legal work, which vary based on income and assets.
- I can directly contact the lawyer before applying. Applicants must first be pre-qualified through the application process before any referrals to lawyers occur. Contacting a lawyer for assistance before this step is not permissible.
- The consultation guarantees that the lawyer will represent me. Even after the initial consultation and discussion of your case, there is no obligation for the lawyer to accept your case. Each lawyer has the right to make this decision based on their assessment of the situation.
Key takeaways
Here are some essential takeaways for filling out and using the Oregon Modest Means Program form:
- Understand the Purpose: The Modest Means Program aims to provide legal assistance to moderate-income individuals who do not qualify for legal aid.
- Eligibility Criteria: Your eligibility is determined by factors such as your income, assets, location, and the type of legal matter. Ensure both parties involved in the case reside in Oregon.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the application form completely and sign it. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
- Keep Submissions Simple: Do not attach any additional documents to your application. Only submit the completed form without any extra papers.
- Be Prepared for Costs: An initial consultation costs $35, and you may incur additional fees based on the lawyer's hourly rate, which can range between $60 and $100.
- Initial Consultation Appointment: After being referred to a lawyer, you need to call and schedule a 30-minute initial consultation.
- Lawyer's Discretion: Just because you are referred does not mean the lawyer is obligated to take your case. They have the final say in accepting clients.
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